Understanding SEER Ratings

How to Choose a High-Efficiency HVAC System

Your HVAC system keeps your home comfortable regardless of the seasons. However, there are times when energy efficiency becomes a more significant concern over your comfort level. So, as an eco-conscious office or homeowner, your debate over investing in a high-performance HVAC system becomes a challenge. That’s where the role of SEER rating comes into being. What do you mean by SEER rating, and how do you select a high-efficiency system? Let’s find out from the following.

Understanding What is SEER Ratings

Also known as the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, the AHRI, or Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute, defined the SEER rating in 2008.

SEER ratings let you identify the efficiency of every HVAC unit. As an example, an air conditioner with an 18 SEER rating is more energy-efficient than one with a 16 SEER rating. So, efficiency is a significant consideration that helps you compare the HVAC units.

Benefits of High SEER Ratings

Dividing the overall cooling output of your system during a cooling season by the energy consumption required for achieving the output gives you the SEER rating. The minimum rating for a new heat pump or aircon is usually 14, while the maximum is 25 or 26.

Now, why is a high SEER efficiency rating critical? This rating can determine the amount of money you need to spend on your cooling and heating system. The following are the benefits of a high SEER rating:

Lower Carbon Footprint

A higher SEER rating enables the system to use less energy, contributing to fewer greenhouse gas emissions and reducing environmental impacts. When a system uses less electricity, it reduces its carbon footprint and lowers utility bills, too.

Saves Energy and Utility Bills

Switching from a unit with a SEER rating of 8 to a system with a 16 rating can save half the energy bill you used to pay. At the same time, it keeps the HVAC well-maintained while reducing energy bills. So, the bottom line is that with higher efficiency comes lower bills. A highly efficient system with a greater SEER rating consumes less energy to offer the required level of cooling.

Improved Comfort

Technology in high-efficiency HVAC systems provides better temperature control, improving indoor air quality while offering a more comfortable ambiance. Besides, a higher SEER rating eliminates moisture from the air that would have otherwise resulted in airborne diseases and mold growth.

How to Choose a High-Efficiency HVAC System?

The HVAC system is one of the most significant aspects of the discussion about maintaining a comfortable home ambiance. So, if you plan to select a high-efficiency HVAC system, you may come across various options available in the online market. So, how do you choose the most suitable one that ensures energy efficiency and comfort while reducing monthly bills? Let’s find out from the following:

• Capacity, Size, and System Type

While an undersized system struggles to cool your space, an oversized unit will cycle on and off more frequently. The latter wastes energy more and results in irregular temperature distribution. So, while selecting heating cooling systems, you must focus on aspects like the climatic condition of your region, square footage, and insulation levels, to mention a few.

Different HVAC systems come with varying ranges of efficiency. You must look for options such as:

• Central air conditioning
• Heat pumps
• Ductless mini-splits and more

•   Installation and Maintenance Needs

Installing the system ensures efficiency for a longer period. So, contact a reliable HVAC contractor to install the high-efficiency system. In addition, air conditioning service is crucial for optimal performance. Thus, you must select an affordable and low-maintenance system.

• IAQ Components

Indoor air quality (IAQ)components are add-ons to your HVAC systems. The most common ones include high-efficiency air filtration systems and humidifiers.

Note: You should also compare contractors’ warranties as it can save time and effort when the system breaks during the most unforeseen time.

• Speed Technology

Most high-efficiency HVAC systems use variable-speed technology. With this feature, the compressor and blower fan operate at various speeds depending on the heating and cooling demand. This feature enables improved temperature control and better dehumidification while saving energy.

SEER ratings measure the cooling efficiency of the ac system over the cooling season. The higher the air conditioner seer rating, the greater the system’s energy efficiency. This results in lower operating expenses and reduced environmental impact.

Generally, a high SEER rating means the system consumes less energy while delivering the same amount of cooling considered in BTUs. So, now that you understand everything about SEER rating, it’s time to choose reliable cooling and heating products.